Wanna skip town with your sweetie for a special Valentine's Day holiday? Check out our list of quick getaway hotspots – featuring beaches, coral reefs, temples and more
We’ve already sussed out some of Singapore’s most romantic spots and given you the low-down on the best Valentine’s Day dining options. But if you plan to take your romance across borders, we’ve got you covered as well. Whether you’re looking for a Wes Anderson-esque romance in the old town of Hoi An or to play castaway in the rugged but charming Perhentian Islands, our list will sate your wanderlust and spark the Romeo or Juliet in you.
Bohol, Philippines
It’s no mistake – Bohol, Philippines is on this list instead of the ever-popular Boracay. In recent times, the latter has become crowded, touristy and, in short, hardly a romantic destination at all. At Bohol, you’ll get all of Borocay’s white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and azure skies, without the constant distraction of souvenir peddlers, crowds and kitschy restaurants. If you’re a fan of Alex Garland’s The Beach, this is probably as close as you’ll reasonably get.
Hoi An, Vietnam
Charming streetside cafés, cosy hotels and picturesque canals aren’t solely the charter of European cities like Paris and Prague. Just a short flight away from Singapore, you’ll find yourself in this enchanting little port town that will take you back to a simpler, more romantic era. You’ll discover restaurants and bars around practically every corner, perfect for a candlelit dinners by the canals. Unlike Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, most of the town is made up of low-rise shophouses, not unlike our own Clarke Quay in the ’60s.
Siem Riep, Cambodia
Swap the usual romantic seaside backdrop for the ruins of Angkor Wat, silhouetted against an amber sunset. If it’s adventure rather than relaxation you’re after, these majestic ruins will offer hours of exploration for you and your intrepid other.
Hainan Island, China
Tropical beaches are hardly the first thing that comes to mind when you think of China. Hainan Island, often referred to as the “Hawaii” of China, holds the distinction of being the only tropical beach getaway in the country. Couples looking for an elevated beachfront holiday have lots of options here thanks to the luxury hotel boom: Shangri-La, InterContinental and Mandarin Oriental offer resorts on the island.
Galle, Sri Lanka
A short three-hour bus ride from Colombo will get you to this scenic coastal settlement, known for its stunning beach views and cultural landmarks. Get lost in the markets of the Galle Fort while hunting for gems and rare antiques, or take in a bit of history at the Historical Mansion Museum and the Dutch Church.
Koh Pha Ngan Island, Thailand
If Koh Pha Ngan’s on your travel bucket list, it’s probably due to the island’s famous Full Moon Party. Delve deeper into its offerings, and you’ll find far more than a tourist-centric party destination. Head to the Western shore of the island, to Haad Chao Phao, and you’ll be treated to budget-friendly bungalows and a variety of beachside bars and restaurants to choose from. This sleepy little town will treat you to a killer view, good eats and sand between your toes, all without the sticker shock of a fancy schmancy luxury hotel.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali is a holiday location that has managed to remain a classic honeymoon destination throughout the years, and for good reason. Though certainly touristy, with the kitsch to match, its rugged coastline, white sand beaches and slew of cultural landmarks still offer plenty of sights for the travelling couple.
The Maldives
Another favourite that doesn’t need much introduction, the Maldives is a living postcard that will charm you and your special someone with its picturesque beaches and laid-back island charm. Snorkelling among the islands’ vibrant coral reefs is a little more adventurous diversion if you want a change of pace from bumming around by the beach.
Perhentian Islands, Malaysia
Island getaways ravaged by tourism tend to present visitors a warped, tourist-centric view of the locale. Take a break from your cellphone, laptop and iPad and really get to know your sweetheart in this untouched, rustic island settlement. If you’re not bothered by sketchy power grids and roughing it out a little, you’ll love the small town, close-knit feel of Perhentian Islands. The surrounding waters are also ideal for diving, great if you want to get a little aquatic action on the side.
